Kenya eVisa (eTA) – Your Complete Guide to Visiting Kenya in 2026
Planning a trip to Kenya? Whether you dream of watching the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, exploring the vibrant streets of Nairobi, or relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Diani, your journey starts with one essential step: obtaining a Kenya eVisa.
Since January 5, 2024, Kenya has replaced its traditional visa system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This digital process makes it faster and simpler for travelers worldwide to get permission to enter the country. This guide covers everything you need to know – from what the eTA is, how to apply, what it costs, and how to avoid the mistakes that delay most first-time applicants.
What Is the Kenya eTA?
The Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital travel permit that replaced the former eVisa system. Launched on January 5, 2024, the eTA is now the only way for most foreign nationals to gain entry to Kenya for tourism, business, transit, or family visits.
Unlike the old eVisa, which was tied to a specific visa category, the eTA serves as a unified authorization. It is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance and typically allows stays of up to 90 days per visit. The entire process happens online through the official government portal at etakenya.go.ke.
Key facts about the Kenya eTA:
- Official portal: etakenya.go.ke
- Validity: 90 days from date of issue
- Maximum stay: Up to 90 days (determined at the port of entry)
- Entry type: Single entry
- Processing time: 3 working days (standard)
- Fee: Starting at $30 USD
The eTA is not a visa in the traditional sense. It is an electronic authorization that confirms your eligibility to travel to Kenya. You must have it approved before boarding your flight – airlines will check for it.
Who Needs a Kenya eTA?
Almost every foreign national needs an approved eTA before traveling to Kenya. This includes tourists, business travelers, those visiting family, transit passengers, and even infants and children.
However, certain categories of travelers are exempt from the eTA requirement:
Exempt categories include:
- Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits, and Passes
- Citizens of East African Partner States (Burundi, DR Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda) for up to 180 days
- Citizens of select nations including South Africa, The Bahamas, The Gambia, Trinidad and Tobago, and several others for up to 90 days
- Transit passengers who remain in the airport and do not leave the precincts
- Crew members of ships, aircraft, or trains whose names appear on the crew manifest
- Holders of UN, African Union, and various international organization Laissez-Passers while on official business
- Holders of diplomatic or service passports from select countries (Brazil, India, Turkey, China, Iran) for limited periods
If you are a US, UK, Canadian, Australian, or EU passport holder, you need an eTA. There is no visa-on-arrival option anymore.
How the Kenya eTA Application Process Works
Applying for a Kenya eTA is a straightforward online process. You do not need to visit an embassy or consulate. Here is a summary of the steps:
Step 1: Gather your documents
Before starting the application, have these ready:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity from your arrival date, with at least 1 blank page)
- Recent passport-style photo or selfie
- Flight itinerary (arrival and departure details)
- Accommodation booking confirmation
- Email address and phone number
- Credit or debit card for payment
Step 2: Complete the online form
Visit etakenya.go.ke and create an account. Fill in your personal details, travel information, and purpose of visit. Upload the required documents.
Step 3: Pay the fee
The standard processing fee starts at $30 USD. Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, or other supported methods.
Step 4: Wait for approval
Standard processing takes up to 3 working days (72 hours). Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
Step 5: Receive your eTA
Once approved, the eTA is sent to your email. Download and print it. Present the printed eTA at the port of entry along with your passport.
For a detailed step-by-step walkthrough, read our complete guide on the Kenya eVisa application process.
Kenya eTA Fees and Processing Time
The cost of a Kenya eTA depends on the processing speed you choose:
| Processing Type | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $30 | Up to 72 hours (3 working days) |
| Expedited | Varies | Faster processing |
Additional bank or transaction fees may apply (typically around $1.50-$2.00). The total cost for standard processing is approximately $32.50 including fees.
Processing times can vary. While most applications are processed within 72 hours, some may take longer during peak travel seasons or if additional verification is needed. It is recommended to apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for any unexpected delays.
For a detailed breakdown of costs and timing, see our article on Kenya eVisa fees and processing time.
Required Documents for Kenya eTA
Every applicant needs to provide a set of core documents. Depending on your purpose of visit, additional documents may be required.
For all travelers:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Minimum 6 months validity from arrival date, at least 1 blank page |
| Passport Photo | Recent selfie or passport-style photograph |
| Contact Information | Email address and phone number |
| Travel Itinerary | Arrival and departure flight details |
| Accommodation Proof | Hotel booking or letter from host |
| Payment Method | Credit card, debit card, or other accepted methods |
Additional documents based on purpose of visit:
- Business: Invitation letter from a Kenyan company, copy of company registration
- Family visit: Invitation letter from family/host, identity document of the host
- Medical: Letter or appointment letter from the referring doctor or hospital
- Conference: Invitation or participation letter
- Employment: Employment contract
- Diplomatic: Diplomatic/official passport, official letter from country of origin
For the full requirements list, visit our Kenya eVisa requirements page.
Kenya eVisa vs Visa on Arrival
A common question from travelers is whether they can still get a visa on arrival in Kenya. The answer is no – since January 5, 2024, the visa on arrival option has been eliminated for most nationalities.
| Feature | Kenya eTA | Old Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Online before travel | At the airport |
| Processing | 3 working days | Immediate (but long queues) |
| Cost | From $30 USD | Varied |
| Required pre-trip | Yes, must be approved before boarding | No |
| Availability | Current system | Discontinued (Jan 2024) |
The eTA system was introduced to streamline the entry process, reduce congestion at airports, and improve security screening. While it requires advance planning, it eliminates the uncertainty and long waits that came with visa-on-arrival processing.
Learn more about the differences in our article on Kenya eVisa vs visa on arrival.
Tips for a Successful Kenya eTA Application
Based on common issues reported by travelers, here are practical tips to ensure your application goes smoothly:
- Apply early: Submit your application at least 2 weeks before travel, not the minimum 72 hours
- Check passport validity: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from your arrival date
- Use a clear photo: Blurry or poorly lit passport photos are a top reason for delays
- Double-check details: Name, passport number, and dates must match your passport exactly
- Use the official portal: Only apply through etakenya.go.ke to avoid third-party markups
- Monitor your email: Approval notifications and any requests for additional documents come by email
- Print your eTA: Have a physical copy ready to present at the port of entry
For more tips on avoiding delays and rejections, read our guide on common Kenya eVisa mistakes.
Kenya eTA for US Citizens
US passport holders are eligible for the Kenya eTA and must apply before traveling. There is no visa-on-arrival option for American citizens.
The requirements are the same as for most nationalities: a valid passport (6+ months validity), passport photo, travel itinerary, accommodation proof, and payment of the $30 USD fee.
US citizens can stay in Kenya for up to 90 days on a single-entry eTA. For longer stays or multiple entries, additional arrangements may be needed through the Kenya Department of Immigration.
For nationality-specific guidance, see our Kenya eVisa for US citizens article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related guides: Kenya eVisa application process | Kenya eVisa requirements | Kenya eVisa fees and processing time | Kenya eVisa for US citizens | common Kenya eVisa mistakes
How long does it take to get a Kenya eTA approved?
Standard processing takes up to 3 working days (72 hours). Expedited processing is available for an additional fee and can be faster. However, some applications may take longer if additional verification is needed.
Can I get a Kenya visa on arrival?
No. Since January 5, 2024, Kenya has replaced the visa-on-arrival system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). All travelers must apply and receive approval before their journey.
How much does a Kenya eTA cost?
The standard processing fee starts at $30 USD. Additional bank fees of approximately $1.50-$2.00 may apply. Expedited processing is available at a higher cost.
How long can I stay in Kenya with an eTA?
The eTA is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. The actual duration of your stay is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry, but it is typically up to 90 days.
What happens if my Kenya eTA application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive a notification by email with the reason. Common reasons include incomplete documents, passport validity issues, or mismatched information. You can reapply after addressing the issue.
Do children need a Kenya eTA?
Yes. All visitors including infants and children must have an approved eTA before traveling to Kenya. A separate application must be submitted for each child.
Is the Kenya eTA the same as the old Kenya eVisa?
The eTA replaced the old eVisa system on January 5, 2024. While it serves a similar purpose, the eTA is a unified authorization system with a different application process and portal (etakenya.go.ke instead of evisa.go.ke).
Final Thoughts
Getting your Kenya eTA is a simple online process, but it requires advance planning. Start your application at least two weeks before your trip, double-check all documents and details, and use only the official portal at etakenya.go.ke.
With your eTA approved, you are free to explore everything Kenya has to offer – from the wildlife of Amboseli to the coral reefs of Watamu, from the cultural richness of Lamu Island to the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley.
Apply for your Kenya eTA today and start planning your East African adventure.
